JERUSALEM -- President Obama and other top American officials past and present offered their condolences on the passing of former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, who died on Saturday, eight years after suffering a massive, debilitating stroke.

Sharon was a man of controversy but the statements reflected a consensus of respect for the former leader’s dedication to his country, his courage to change his mind and his working friendship with the U.S.

“On behalf of the American people," the president's statement said, "Michelle and I send our deepest condolences ... on the loss of a leader who dedicated his life to the State of Israel.”

Obama stressed the enduring friendship between the two nations and reiterated U.S. commitment to bring peace and security to Israel, including a continued commitment to the goal of the two-state solution.

“Ariel Sharon’s journey was Israel’s journey,” said Kerry, who recalled reading about “Arik” in the papers as a young lawyer and marveling at his “commitment to cause and country.”

Kerry said he would never forget his eventual meeting with “this big bear of a man” who had become prime minister by then and sought to “bend the course of history toward peace” with his plan to withdraw Israel from the Gaza strip.

“Today, we all recognize, as he did, that Israel must be strong to make peace, and that peace will also make Israel stronger,” Kerry said. “We honor Arik’s legacy…by working to achieve that goal.”

Biden will lead the U.S. delegation to Israel for the memorial service for Sharon, scheduled for Monday.

Sharon always maintained the courage of his convictions yet “had the courage to alter his course as well,” said House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi. Sharon’s decision to withdraw from Gaza was “not taken lightly” but was anchored in his guiding concern for Israel’s security. His death “marks the end of an era,” she said.“

"Israel has lost a great warrior and the United States has lost a great friend,” said Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas).

A statement from the Clintons reflects much of the experience of interacting with Sharon. “It was an honor to work with him, argue with him.”

JERUSALEM -- Under skies dotted with scattered clouds and a blimp, Israeli and international leaders attended the state memorial ceremony held Monday for former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, who died Saturday.

JERUSALEM — Former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s casket, draped in Israel's blue and white flag, made its way to Jerusalem on Sunday aboard a military command car in a somber motorcade flanked with police motorcycles and other military vehicles.

JERUSALEM -- The death of former Israeli prime minister and military leader Ariel Sharon was met with emotional responses Saturday in Israel and the Palestinian territories; in some quarters eliciting cries of sorrow, in others, tears of joy.

JERUSALEM -- Ahead of another visit this week by U.S. Secretary of State John F. Kerry, reports that he plans to present a framework for peace to Israeli and Palestinian leaders are causing growing unrest among Israeli opponents of a two-state solution.